UKZN Workshops Empower Educators to Shape SA’s Next Generation of Scientists and Mathematicians
UKZN Workshops Empower Educators to Shape SA’s Next Generation of Scientists and Mathematicians
The College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science (CAES) continues to make strides in educational outreach, recently hosting a two-day physical science workshop and a one-day mathematics workshop for teachers from the uMgungundlovu district.
The workshops, spearheaded by the CAES Matric Helpline, are part of an ongoing commitment to empowering educators and inspiring the next generation of scientists and mathematicians.
The event was inaugurated by Professor Naven Chetty, Dean of Teaching and Learning at CAES, who shared his vision for the outreach programme. With a background in Physics, Chetty expressed his enthusiasm for contributing to the professional development of Physical Science teachers.
Chetty’s opening remarks set the tone for a workshop that was both impactful and tailored to the specific needs of the educators in attendance.
In collaboration with the Department of Education’s uMgungundlovu district curriculum team, the physical science workshop was meticulously designed to address current educational challenges. The sessions covered a range of critical topics, including subject knowledge enhancement, learner misconceptions, teaching strategies, technology integration and practical work.
Educators were particularly excited to explore new technologies and learn strategies to foster greater classroom participation. With the assistance of UKZN’s Science Centre, participants engaged in hands-on experiments to better understand concepts such as internal resistance. The South African Institute of Physics also contributed by providing valuable resources, ensuring that teachers could continue their professional development long after the workshop concluded.
The mathematics workshop marked the beginning of a series aimed at supporting the growth of new Mathematics teachers. Focusing on the question: “What is mathematical thinking?” the workshop encouraged participants to explore this concept in depth, build confidence, and develop their own teaching philosophies. This initiative is timely, given the current challenges in mathematics education, as it emphasises the importance of not only imparting mathematical knowledge but also nurturing the professional development of new teachers, who hold the future of our students in their hands.
The CAES Matric Helpline plays a pivotal role in assisting Grade 11 and Grade 12 learners, particularly in preparing for their National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams by offering supplementary classes and comprehensive support. Since its inception, the Helpline has been closely aligned with the needs of the local community, providing a high-quality learning experience that complements the national curriculum (CAPS) and assessment policy statements.
In Pietermaritzburg and Westville, the Helpline hosts Saturday classes for Grade 11 and Grade 12 learners while, additionally, the Pietermaritzburg team works with four schools – Heather Secondary, Woodlands Secondary, Umvuso High School, and Fudokhule Secondary – to support the preparation of matric learners. Through these sessions, learners have the unique opportunity to interact with real-life scientists and mathematicians, often finding inspiration to pursue these careers themselves.
For those interested in learning more about the CAES Matric Helpline or exploring partnership opportunities, contact mailto:matricexamhelpline@ukzn.ac.za. This initiative stands as a beacon of hope, bridging the gap between education and aspiration, and fostering a brighter future for South Africa’s youth.
Words: Lexia Naidoo
Photograph: Supplied
